When the nearest stars are observed
and the furthest ancient light is discovered
we see what became the past far removed
from the beginning.

If we remove ourselves from physical bonds
and trivial thoughts, what used to be feeling
transforms into knowing that what is felt and tasted
is no different than the first particle sent into the void.

If we allow the light and dark matter
to return back to us, to remind us
of our own beginning we see and
hear the music of energy and motion.

If we extend our imagination
and slow the waves of energy
we see infinite colors and
and the building blocks

of a concept still mystifying
the child standing in awe in the empty fields.

Through silence I find
the universe’s voice and
when balanced it is
a reflection of myself.

Midnight sky. White dots.
So many they blend into
a haze across what
astronomers measure in parsecs –
whatever the official distance or definition
I know this –

I stand in awe at the heavens,
the light, and energy I feel
as warmth, the darkness filled
with particles, the part I play
as something made with the same
particles and the connection I feel
to water’s continuous motion as the
sky falls into the sea and the sea
consumes my body.

I came across this photo on Facebook and cannot help but be mesmerized by their faces and everything it symbolizes. These are Japanese Macaque, also called Snow Monkeys. They appear to be in a hot spring, possibly in Japan. I find it impossible to look at this, their face, expressions, and not know we are connected in ways beyond energy and the ground we walk upon. It is much deeper, more genetic. We come from the same material, the same subatomic particles, from the same universal source.

The one on the left is wondering about the nature of the photographer, and their intention. The one on the right appears slightly older, more wise, and aware of the photographer, but not concerned. He has chosen to be aware of the situation, process the energy, and let it go. And enjoy the hot spring.

When you see these faces, the situation, their reaction, and how they have chosen to be in that moment, how can we not see ourselves? How can we say we are not all connected in various threads and degrees?